In a strategic initiative to position the Eastern Cape’s visibility as a premier tourist destination, the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) partnered with the Southern African Tourism Services Association (SATSA) to host 19 tour operators nationwide. The collaboration aimed to provide these critical players in the tourism industry with a firsthand experience of the province’s rich offerings, ensuring they would recommend the Eastern Cape to international and domestic travellers.
The tour operators were treated to a comprehensive itinerary. Various public and private sector product owners sponsored accommodation, activities, meals, and networking sessions. This support showcased the strength of the Eastern Cape’s tourism network, underscoring the collaboration between stakeholders in the region.
The delegation arrived in Gqeberha on 19 August and concluded their immersive tour on 26 August. During their stay, the operators experienced a wide array of activities that highlighted the diverse tourism offerings of the region. The itinerary included stops at Tsitsikamma Tourism, Cape St Francis, Jeffreys Bay, Gamtoos, Addo Tourism Nelson Mandela Bay, private game reserves, which included Shamwari Private Game Reserve, Pabala Private Nature Reserve, Kwantu Private Game Reserve, and Bellevue Forest Reserve.
This initiative provided an important opportunity for tour operators to incorporate the Eastern Cape into their travel packages, further positioning the province as a must-visit destination for travellers seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty
